FORT MEADE, Md. (AP) — The lawyer for an Army private who sent troves of classified material to WikiLeaks is thanking supporters who gathered outside Maryland’s Fort Meade ahead of Pfc. Bradley Manning’s court-martial.

David Coombs issued a brief statement on his website Sunday. It reads in part, “On behalf of both myself and Pfc. Manning, I would like to thank everyone for their continued support over the last three years.” He also thanks supporters for raising money and awareness of the case.

Coombs has made few public statements during the Manning case.

Manning’s trial is to begin Monday. The 25-year-old Oklahoma native is charged with indirectly aiding the enemy by sending classified material to WikiLeaks. He faces up to life in prison.